"This confirms DARS's assertions that the open call has been prepared professionally and in line with regulations," the motorway company said in a press release on Friday.

DARS was supposed to open bids in mid-October, but the process was halted and the bids remained sealed pending the decision on Kapsch's appeal.

The bids were submitted by Kapsch TrafficCom, Slovenian firm Cetis, and two consortia, Iskratel in conjunction with Slovak Skytoll and Telekom Slovenije together with Norway's Q-Free.

The e-tolling contract covers vehicles exceeding 3.5 tonnes; cars and vans will still be required to use the current system of toll stickers.

It has been years in the making, mired in complaints and accusations of heavy lobbying. The first one was issued in 2011, the second one in 2013, and the last one in July this year.

The contract does not specify the technology to be used, as long as it is in line with EU rules.